Well, autumn has finally nudged its way into Carson Valley, albeit slowly over these past few weeks. What a lovely transition it has been, with the very warm days turning to cooler evenings and brisk air in the early morning hours. It's finally time to break out the sweaters.
It always takes me by surprise how quickly the days seem to shorten. One evening my family will be out for a walk or riding our bikes and the next evening, it is almost too dark to do so.
Some folks love to spring clean but for me, it's all about fall. The crisp weather hints of evenings by the fireplace, card playing and good books and I want to be ready for those beloved, hibernating months ahead. It's also a nudge to get me ready for the upcoming holidays.
Autumn is the perfect time to get outside and work in the yard. The midday sweltering heat is gone and the day affords plenty of time for digging, pruning and harvesting. It's an ideal time to plant trees, shrubs, grass and flowering bulbs. Cool air and warm soil help new root systems develop, and the plants will have all of fall and spring to become established before the rough summer season.
Douglas Disposal is lending a hand with these fall chores by offering a special service the week of Oct. 23. On your pick-up day that week, you are able to set out additional refuse (not to exceed six to eight 32-gallon trash bags) at no additional charge. The waste can be green clippings from your yard or just regular old trash. What a perfect opportunity to tackle the landscaping or that garage-cleaning project you've been meaning to get to all summer. Be sure and take advantage of this great service, and thank your collectors for their extra hard work that week.
I hope you find some time to get outside and relish the fantastic change of season that we are so fortunate to have here. Take a walk and listen to the leaves crunch beneath your feet. Marvel at the rich fall colors in the trees. Breathe in the cool, clean air and look at our magnificent mountain horizons with fresh eyes. I sometimes forget just how lucky I am to live among such splendor.
n Amy Roby can be reached by e-mail at RanchosRoundup@hotmail.com
